Nate Bargatze | Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Nate Bargatze opens up about his unusual childhood in Nashville, where his dad was a preacher, a clown, a magician, and a motivational speaker. Growing up in a home full of performance and showmanship, Nate learned early how to entertain — and it shaped the way he does comedy today.

He takes us through his journey from reading water meters to standing on stage as a stand-up comic. What stands out? He never drank or cursed in his act, even when everyone around him did. Nate explains why he chose to keep his comedy clean — not out of fear, but because he wanted to make people laugh without making anyone feel uncomfortable. That choice helped him build a wide, welcoming audience.

Nate talks about performing alongside some of the rowdiest comedians in New York, and how those experiences taught him what not to do. He shares the big moments that changed everything — like his first appearance on Conan and his debut on Saturday Night Live. But he also says his real breakthrough came from quiet reflection, learning from his own missteps, and figuring out what sounded like him.

These days, Nate has shifted from constant touring to focusing on the next generation of comics. He’s building his own entertainment company, helping new talent find their voice, and creating content on his own terms. It’s a full-circle moment — from a kid raised on stage, to a creator shaping the future of comedy.